Best Things to Do in the North of Malta
Last Updated: Jun 26, 2023
Reading Time: 10 minutes
By: Shaun
Malta is a tiny island in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea, but don’t let its size fool you. It has more than enough to keep you entertained for days, weeks, or even months. You probably already know about its capital city, Valletta, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site full of history and culture. You may also have heard about its pre-historic temples, sunny beaches, lively nightlife, and delicious cuisine. But did you know that there is a whole other side of Malta that most tourists miss out on? A side that is more authentic, more adventurous, and more fun? We are talking about the north of Malta, of course.
In this article, we will explore some of the best things to do in the north of Malta so buckle up, and let’s explore what this part of Malta has to offer.
Why visit the north of Malta?
The north of Malta is often overlooked by tourists who mainly flock to the central parts of the island, where most of the hotels, restaurants, and nightlife are located, and whose only contact with this side of Malta is on their way to visit Gozo.
This means that you can enjoy a more relaxed and authentic experience in the north, away from the hustle and bustle of the main tourist areas. The north of Malta also boasts some of the most beautiful scenery on the island, with green hills, rocky cliffs, and sandy beaches.
You can also explore some interesting historical and cultural sites, such as fortifications that used to protect the islands and film sets. The north of Malta is also a great base for visiting the neighbouring islands of Gozo and Comino, which offer even more natural wonders and attractions.
What are the best attractions in the north of Malta?
If you are looking for some fun and exciting things to do in the north of Malta, you will not be disappointed. There are plenty of attractions to suit every taste and budget, from family-friendly theme parks to romantic bays. Here are some of our favourites:
What are the best attractions in the north of Malta?
Here are some of our favourite attractions in the north of Malta:
Mellieħa Bay
Mellieħa Bay | Image by Mboesch on Wikimedia Commons
Mellieħa Bay, also known as Ghadira Bay, is the largest and most popular sandy beach in Malta. It stretches for over a kilometre along the coast, offering plenty of space for sunbathing, swimming, and playing. The water is shallow and calm, making it ideal for families with children and beginners in water sports.
You can also rent sunbeds, umbrellas, kayaks, paddle boats, and jet skis at the beach. There are also several cafes, restaurants, and kiosks along the beach where you can grab a bite or a drink. Mellieħa Bay is easily accessible by bus or car, and there is ample parking nearby.
If you are looking for some more adventure and excitement, you can head to the nearby Armier and Little Armier beaches, which are also sandy beaches but with deeper and clearer water. These beaches are perfect for water sports enthusiasts, as you can try surfing, windsurfing, kite surfing, sailing, diving, and more. If you get around Armier, make sure you check out Coral Lagoon at the north-east tip of the island. It’s a hidden gem that makes the effort to get there worthwhile.
Popeye Village
Popeye Village | Image by Callisto_Schmidt from Pixabay
Popeye Village, also known as Sweethaven Village, is one of the most unique and fun attractions in the north of Malta. It is the original film set of the 1980 musical Popeye, starring Robin Williams as the famous sailor. The village consists of 19 wooden houses that were built on the edge of Anchor Bay, creating a colourful and quirky backdrop for the movie.
Today, Popeye Village is a theme park that offers a variety of activities and entertainment for all ages. You can explore the village and its props, meet the characters from the movie, watch live shows and animations, play mini golf and carnival games, swim in the bay or in the pools, and much more. You can also enjoy a free boat ride around the bay and a free cinema ticket to watch the movie. Popeye Village is open all year round, and you can buy your tickets online or at the entrance.
Popeye Village is not only a theme park but also a museum that showcases the history and making of the movie. You can learn about how the village was built, how the actors were chosen, how the scenes were filmed, and how the special effects were created. You can also see some of the original costumes, props, and memorabilia from the movie. Popeye Village also hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, such as Halloween, Christmas, and Easter celebrations. You can also celebrate your birthday or wedding at Popeye Village or rent it for private parties and functions.
Red Tower
The Red Tower | Image by Tony Hisgett on Flickr
Red Tower is named after its red colour, but it’s actually called St. Agatha’s Tower or Mellieħa Tower. It is a historic watchtower that stands on a hill overlooking Mellieħa Bay and Comino. It was built in 1649 by Grand Master Lascaris as part of a series of fortifications to protect Malta from Ottoman attacks. The tower has four floors and a roof terrace, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area. You can also see some cannons, muskets, and other weapons that were used to defend the tower.
The Red Tower is not only a historical attraction but also a popular hiking destination and picnic area. You can reach the tower by following a scenic trail that starts from Mellieħa village or from Golden Bay. The trail passes through some of the most beautiful countryside in Malta, with green fields, olive groves, and wild flowers.
You can also spot some wildlife along the way, such as birds, rabbits, and lizards. The trail takes about an hour to complete each way, depending on your pace and fitness level. You can also drive to the tower by car or bike if you prefer. There is a small parking area near the tower entrance. Once you reach the tower, you can relax and enjoy your picnic on the grassy area around it. There are also some benches and tables available.
Paradise Bay
Paradise Bay | Image by Karen Bryan on Flickr
Paradise Bay is a secluded cove with crystal-clear water and white sand at the northern tip of Malta. It is one of the most beautiful beaches on the island and one of the least crowded ones, too. You can access Paradise Bay by following a steep path that leads down from a car park near the Cirkewwa ferry terminal. The path takes about 10 minutes to walk down (and longer to walk up), but it is worth it for the stunning views of Comino and Gozo along the way.
Paradise Bay is a great place for snorkelling, swimming and even diving, as the water is calm and clear, and there are plenty of fish and marine life to see. You can also rent sunbeds and umbrellas at the beach or bring your own. There is a small kiosk at the beach that sells snacks and drinks, as well as a restaurant and a bar nearby. Paradise Bay is also a popular spot for watching the sunset, as you can see the sun dip behind the horizon and create a colourful spectacle in the sky.
The Malta National Aquarium
Malta National Aquarium | Image by HH58 on Wikimedia Commons
Do you love marine life and want to learn more about it? Then you should visit the Malta National Aquarium, a place where you can see and interact with hundreds of different species of fish and other creatures.
The aquarium has 41 tanks that display various habitats and ecosystems, such as the Mediterranean Sea, the tropical oceans, the Maltese waters, and even a shipwreck. You can admire the colourful corals, the graceful sharks, the cute seahorses, the playful penguins, and many more. You can also touch some of the animals, such as starfish and sea urchins, at the touch pool.
The aquarium is not only a place to see marine life but also a place to learn about it. You can join guided tours, watch feeding sessions, attend educational talks, and participate in workshops. You can also support the conservation and research projects that the aquarium is involved in. The Malta National Aquarium is a fun and informative attraction for all ages. It is a perfect destination for anyone who loves nature and wants to discover its wonders.
The aquarium is located in St. Paul’s Bay and is open every day from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Tickets cost €15.90 for adults and €9.90 for children between 4 and 12 years of age.
Birdpark Malta
Birdpark Malta
If you are a nature lover and a bird enthusiast, you will love Birdpark Malta. It is a wildlife park that houses over 200 species of birds from around the world, such as flamingos, pelicans, owls, parrots, and more. You can see the birds in their natural habitats, such as ponds, aviaries, and enclosures. You can also interact with some of the birds by feeding them or holding them. Birdpark Malta also has some other animals, such as wallabies, meerkats, deer, and reptiles.
Birdpark Malta is not only a place to see birds but also to learn about them. You can join guided tours that explain the characteristics and behaviours of different birds, as well as their conservation status and threats. You can also watch live shows that demonstrate the skills and talents of some birds, such as flying, singing, and talking. Birdpark Malta also has an educational centre that offers various programmes and activities for schools and groups.
Birdpark Malta is also involved in conservation and education programmes that aim to protect and promote the birdlife of Malta and beyond. The park participates in breeding programmes for endangered species, such as the Maltese falcon and the bald ibis. The park also supports local and international organisations that work for bird welfare and conservation. The park also educates visitors about the importance of respecting nature and wildlife.
Selmun Palace
Selmun Palace | Image by Igor Mróz on Flickr
This majestic building was built in the 18th century by the Knights of St. John as a summer residence and a hunting lodge. It has a unique design that resembles a castle, with four towers and a drawbridge. It is surrounded by beautiful gardens and countryside, where you can enjoy the views and the fresh air.
Selmun Palace is not only a historical monument but also a cultural treasure. It has hosted many important events and personalities over the years, such as the British royal family, the Maltese prime ministers, and the famous author Agatha Christie. It has also been used as a film location for several movies and TV shows, such as The Count of Monte Cristo and Game of Thrones. You can explore the palace and learn more about its history and secrets by joining a guided tour or a themed event.
Selmun Palace is surrounded by some of the most scenic and natural landscapes in Malta. You can enjoy the views of the sea, the islands, the fields, and the hills from the palace. You can also explore some of the nature trails that start from the palace and lead you to some of the nearby attractions, such as Mistra Bay, Selmun Bay, and Fort Campbell. You can also spot some of the local flora and fauna along the way, such as wild thyme, carob trees, and birds of prey.
Conclusion
The north of Malta is a great destination for anyone who wants to experience a different side of Malta, one that is more authentic, more natural, and more adventurous. The north of Malta has some of the best attractions and activities on the island, from stunning beaches and bays to charming villages and historic sites.
You can also visit the neighbouring islands of Gozo and Comino, which offer even more wonders and attractions. Whether you are travelling solo, with your family, or with your friends, you will find something to enjoy in the north of Malta.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best beaches in the north of Malta?
The north of Malta has some of the most beautiful and popular beaches on the island, such as Mellieħa Bay, Paradise Bay, and the two Armier beaches. These beaches offer crystal-clear water, soft sand, and stunning views. You can swim, sunbathe, snorkel, or enjoy water sports at these beaches.
What are the best nightlife options in the north of Malta?
The north of Malta has a lively and vibrant nightlife scene, which is mainly concentrated in Buġġiba. Some of the best nightlife options in the area are Amazonia Beach Club & Lido Complex, Fat Harry’s Pub, Travellers Cafe/Bar and The Owls Nest Inn.
What are the best places to stay in the north of Malta?
The best places to stay in the north of Malta are Buġġiba, Qawra, and Mellieħa. We recommend checking out the Maritim Antonine Hotel & Spa, the Solana Hotel & Spa, db San Antonio Hotel + Spa, the Dolmen Hotel, and the Pebbles Resort.
What are the best restaurants in the north of Malta?
The best restaurants to check out in the north of Malta are Venus Restaurant, Trattoria 'a Lanterna Cucina Ligure, *The Chef's Table, Amami, Salia, and one80 Kitchen & Lounge.
